New Haven

25 Free and Affordable Summer Camps in Connecticut

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Mon, 03/04/2019 - 8:26pm

Once school ends here in Connecticut, parents suddenly face a whole lot of unstructured time for the kids. But don't stress: This is where summer camps come into the picture—and it doesn't have to break the bank. We've made it easy for Connecticut parents to find some less expensive camps throughout the state to keep kids busy and happy this summer. Check out our picks for cheap (and even free) Connecticut summer camps. Remember to inquire with your town's parks and rec department; these camps tend to be very affordable options, too.

St. Patrick's Day Parades and Events for Kids and Families in Connecticut

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Fri, 03/01/2019 - 5:04pm

It's March and you know what that means...St. Patrick's Day! While St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are often thought of as mostly adult-oriented (usually associated with pints of Guinness), there are many kid-friendly ways to celebrate the holiday with wee little ones in Connecticut. Check out our March GoList for more handpicked fun this month.

Connecticut STEM Camps Keep Science and Math Fun All Summer

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Mon, 02/18/2019 - 9:00am

Got a Connecticut kiddo who loves all things science and tech? If so, a STEM summer camp could be a great way to broaden those interests and start your little scientist on a path of lifelong learning. At these enriching, hands-on summer programs in Connecticut, kids ranging in age from preschoolers to teens will have a chance to learn STEM principles, from building a model coral reef to designing and printing 3-D objects to powering a circuit using solar energy.

Check out these STEM summer camps across the state, or take a look at our extensive Summer Camp Guide and Summer Camp Directory for tons of options fit for all interests, including affordable Connecticut camps and sleepway camps.

Where to Celebrate Maple Sugaring Season with Kids in Connecticut

Submitted by Jacqueline Miller on Sun, 02/17/2019 - 8:30pm

Soon, sugar houses all across the state get to work on the process of collecting and evaporating clear watery sap into tasty, golden syrup. The traditional maple sugaring season extends from February until late March, though that depends greatly on the weather (freezing nights and warm, sunny days are necessary to provide good sap yields). If you and the kids are interested in learning more about this sweet New England tradition, choose among the many open houses, demonstrations and festivals in Litchfield, Hartford, Fairfield, and New Haven counties. Some sugar houses invite you to stop in anytime the evaporator is running (but call before heading out).

Why Urban Air Adventure Park is Heaven for Active Kids in Connecticut

Submitted by Makayla O'Keefe on Sun, 02/10/2019 - 7:53pm

If you have active kids, you’ve probably visited an indoor trampoline park—they've been popping up all over Connecticut in the past decade. These super-fun facilities are recognized by their wall-to-wall, quilt-like patchwork of trampolines. But then, there’s Urban Air Adventure Park. Marketed as a trampoline park “on steroids,” Urban Air's 84,200 square feet of indoor space also includes go-karts, a zip line, laser tag, a "Ninja Warrior"-inspired play area, a colossal climbing playground, and more. After a recent visit with my kids, I can tell you whether Urban Air is worth the trip; what what not to miss if you go.

10 Indoor Play Spaces in New Haven County for Connecticut Kids

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Sun, 01/20/2019 - 8:37pm

If your kids are anything like my two bundles of non-napping energy, there are days when you just need to let them run free – but preferably within a confined indoor space. There are a few notable play areas that are perfect for tiring kids out on cold or wet days in New Haven County, in particular. Inexpensive and varied, each indoor play space has its own charm. For more indoor fun check out our Connecticut Indoor Play Guide.

Free Museum Days in Connecticut

Submitted by Ally Noel on Sun, 01/06/2019 - 6:00pm

Connecticut may be one of the nation’s smallest states, but what it lacks in square footage it makes up for in culture. Connecticut boasts hundreds of art museums, historical homesteads, science museums, children’s museums, and cultural centers across the state. If you want to take advantage of everything the Nutmeg State has to offer, but don’t love the price tag that comes along with it, then this list of family-friendly cultural attractions featuring free days for visitors is for you! From the Lyman AIlyn Art Museum in New London to the Wadsworth Antheneum in Hartford, there's something for every interest and age group. Still craving more? Check out our complete Connecticut museum guide.

Below is a list of free visiting hours in various museums and cultural centers around the state. Please confirm these free days and evenings with the museums before heading out. Sometimes, especially near a national or religious holiday, schedules may change. Also, keep in mind that teachers, veterans, or seniors may also receive extra discounts.

Things to Do on New Year's Day in Connecticut

Submitted by Ally Noel on Tue, 12/25/2018 - 11:38am

Sure, you have amazing plans watching the clock strike midnight, but if your kids are anything like mine -- they will still be up at the crack of dawn on New Year's Day looking for something to do. Whether you choose to bundle up and head outdoors, or leave the coats at home and check out an indoor activity, there is plenty of excitement awaiting in every corner of the state. Spend a nice day with your family skating by the Sound, or take in the IMAX at the Maritime Aquarium. From First Day Hikes to the Connecticut cience Center, something on this list will ensure that everyone starts 2019 off right.

25 Fun and Free Things to Do with CT Kids Over Holiday Break

Submitted by Jacqueline Miller on Fri, 12/14/2018 - 10:00am

The December holiday break from school gives most of us the chance to spend quality time together before the new year begins. Whether you're looking forward to visiting light shows or gingerbread displays, there are many activities happening throughout the state, and the best news is that many of them are completely free. Here' s a list of 25 things to do with the kids over holiday break. For more great ideas to keep the entire family entertained, check out the frequently updated Mommy Poppins Events Calendar and Holiday Fun Guide.

Connecticut's Christmas Light Displays

Submitted by Jacqueline Miller on Thu, 11/22/2018 - 11:17am

There is something magical about a holiday light display. Generation after generation have made a ritual of going to see the displays each season. I have so many fun memories of bundling up in the backseat and driving around town searching for the best Christmas lights in town. New Haven has its Fantasy of Lights, Fairfield has several houses that make the holidays special, and Hartford has a huge list of special places to visit.